Fence Picket Bench Planter

Why I Built this Project

Spring is my favorite season and I have been wanting to add some flowers to my front porch. I have been seeing this style planter everywhere and thought it was the perfect time to build one!

 

Why We Love this Fence Picket Bench Planter

• Beautiful and functional – Combines the look of a decorative bench with a built-in planter.
• Made from simple fence pickets – Uses affordable, easy-to-find materials.
• Beginner-friendly build – Straight cuts and simple assembly make it great for new DIYers.
• Budget friendly – A stylish garden feature without spending a lot on lumber.
• Adds instant color – Fill it with flowers to brighten a porch, patio, or garden path.
• Compact design – Perfect for small outdoor spaces.
• Great curb appeal – A charming handmade piece that stands out in the yard.
• Easy to customize – Paint, stain, or plant seasonal flowers to match your style.

 

How I Built this Project

I started by building the box. I decided to go with a 24" planter box, but it would be easy to modify these plans if you went bigger. (I would recommend cutting the dog ear back portions of the planter first and then making all of your straight cuts.) These illustrations are how I did it because I was figuring it out as I went. Lay the bottom boards down and marry them together with a ripped picket from what is leftover, or scrap 1x2's. I used glue and nails for this entire project.

Then add the 4 sides to the perimeter of the bottom.

Once the box was built, I laid out the two back outside dog-eared uprights, marked them 6" up and set the box on them. I ended up nailing from the inside and then flipping the project over to also nail from the outside. 

Once those were attached I added the middle two back pickets. I used a straight edge to make sure they all lined up. Once again, nailing from inside the box and outside.

Then it was time to add the front legs. Measure 6" up and attach from the inside and outside.

Before adding the arms you will want to add the back support. I used a 1x2 scrap, but a ripped fence picket will also work here.

For the arms, I attached the front first and then used my level before shooting the nails to the back side.

Watch!  Build Video for This Project

if applicable, embed video here

 

Free Plans to Build Your Own DIY Fence Picket Bench Planter

Ready to build this yourself?  Here's the free plans, enjoy!

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/FWDug3r

Simple Cedar Raised Garden Bed Plan (Made with Fence Pickets)

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/RXsZeyc

Double Cedar Planter Bench - Free Plans

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/DqdwK4z

Little Library or Community Pantry Box - Free Plans

Why I Built this Project

I've wanted to build a little library/small food pantry for my church. I just built the modern fence picket planter and thought it would be a great base for this little library plan that Ana came up!

 

Why We Love this Little Library/Community Pantry

• Doubles as a Little Free Library and community pantry in one compact design
• Built with standard lumber and easy-to-find materials from the hardware store
• Straightforward construction that makes it beginner-friendly
• The planter base adds stability and a beautiful built-in feature
• Perfect way to give back right from your own yard
• Simple DIY project with a big impact
• Weather-protected cabinet keeps books and pantry items safe
• Customizable — paint or stain to match your home or neighborhood vibe
• Great family project that teaches kids about generosity and service
• Creates a welcoming, feel-good moment for everyone who walks by
• Low maintenance but high impact

 

How I Built this Project

I started by ripping the 4x4 plywood sheet according to the cut list.

I then began assembly using trim screws and glue.

Flip the project over and attach the roof by screwing through the 1x2's. Make sure your spacing is even all the way around it.

Then add the inside shelf. I used spacers to hold it up and screwed it into place.

Next build the face frame with pockets holes and attach with trim screws to the front.

 

From here I painted the box as well as the door frame, which was built the same as the face frame, with 1x3's instead of 1x2's.

For the door, I used a polycarbonate panel. I ended up just ripping it with my circular saw. I used a countersink bit so I could set the screw head even with the panel. 

Now was time to install the hinges, handle and magnet catches.

To attach the box to the 4x4 base, I installed the base into the modern planter I built. Once the post was secure I took the box and drilled a hole in the bottom center of it as well as a hole in the center of the post. I placed a screw so it was exposed about 1/4" and set it into the hole on the post to set it. I then added the 45 degree supports to each side and made sure the post stayed level. 

Watch!  Build Video for This Project

coming soon

 

Free Plans to Build Your Own Little Library or Community Pantry

Ready to build this yourself?  Here's the free plans, enjoy!

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/2SHyU0x

Modern Fence Picket Planter or Raised Bed – Multiple Sizes – Free DIY Plans

Why I Built this Modern Fence Picket Planter

I needed a planter base for an upcoming project. When I saw this brand new plan of Ana's I thought it would be the perfect fit. I especially loved that it was easy to customize to get the size I wanted.

 

Why We Love this Modern Fence Picket Planter

• Clean, modern box design with crisp mitered trim detail
• Built from affordable cedar fence pickets and 2x4s
• Cedar naturally resists rot and insects — perfect for outdoor use
• Warm wood tones add instant texture and character
• Simple horizontal slat design gives it a high-end look
• Top trim creates a finished, furniture-style feel
• Sturdy frame construction for long-term durability
• Lightweight enough to move, strong enough to last
• Easy to customize the size for your space
• Looks beautiful stained, sealed, or left to weather naturally
• Beginner-friendly build with straightforward cuts
• Big visual impact with minimal lumber and cost

 

 

How I Built this Project - Square Size (follows same Steps)

I started by cutting all of my 2x4's and laying them out.

 

The plan calls for a 1/2" space at the bottom, so I clamped the project to my work table along with a scrap 1/2" piece of plywood for the spacer. I predrilled all of my boards before assembly.

I built 2 legs for the size I wanted.

I then began cutting the fence pickets, I set them on their side and cut the 45 degree angle. This was my first time with mitered cuts, it was easier than I thought! It's not perfect, but definitely gives that more modern feel. 

Before attached the pickets to 2 of the sides I fit and clamped them. Once I liked how they lined up I glued and nailed them one by one.

I then measured and fit the last 2 sides. 

Once the sides were all enclosed it was time to add the top. Same thing, I just measured, fit, glued and nailed these pieces. (I ripped a fence picket to 2.5")

Now just cut pickets down to sit down in the frame for the depth of plant you want to set in. 

I also like this design because the interior framing allows you to add a 4x4 post to create string lights, or a place to add a hanging plant up top.

Watch!  Build Video for This Project

coming soon

Free Plans to Build Your Own Modern Fence Picket Planter

Ready to build this yourself?  Here's the free plans, enjoy!

 

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/f14vean